Virology

Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae

The diagnosis of chlamydial infections and gonorrhea has almost entirely transitioned from culture-based to molecular detection in recent years.
At UPHL we employ a transcription mediated amplification test to detect both pathogens in a single tube (Aptima Combo 2 Assay for CT/NG).

Aptima tubes for specimen collection can be ordered through this link: Supply Ordering or call (801) 965-2400.

For testing fees, please see our Fee Schedule. If you have any question about the CT/NG test or specimen submission, please see our Client Service Manual or call the lab
Direct Line: (801)-965-2584

Herpes simplex virus and Varicella zoster virus

UPHL employs a qualitative multiplex real time PCR assay that can distinguish HSV-1, HSV-2 and VZV infections.

For testing fees, please see our Fee Schedule. If you have any question about the test or specimen submission, please see our Client Service Manual or call the lab
Direct Line: (801)-965-2584

Aptima tubes for specimen collection can be ordered through this link: Supply Ordering or call (801) 965-2400.

Trioplex PCR (Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya)

UPHL performs the CDC Trioplex PCR assay for detection of Chikungunya, Dengue and Zika viruses in human serum and urine specimens.
This testing is normally performed once a week and must meet specific criteria (travel, exposure, activities, etc.) in order to be approved by Utah Department of Health Epidemiology.

For specimen collection and testing questions, please contact the Arbovirus Lab at Direct Phone: 801-965-2561 Email: kchriste@utah.gov, aatkinson@utah.gov

For approval for testing for Chikungunya, Dengue and/or Zika viruses, please contact Utah Department of Health Epidemiology at 801-538-6191. More information on Zika virus can be found here

Rabies DFA

UPHL is the only lab in Utah that can detect the Rabies virus in animal brain tissue. We employ a direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test. UPHL provides free testing only for submission meeting recommendations listed in the 2016 compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control and in those circumstances where a significant risk of infection can be identified.

Testing out of the scope of the national guidelines or deemed unnecessary for the protection of Public Health is subjected to a $180 fee .
For a list a common situations in which Rabies testing is warranted please see here.

The lab can accept only animal heads (entire bats are submitted to the lab. We accept also live bats). Please follow the specimen submission guidelines and fill out the Rabies Test Request Form to prepare your shipment. If you are a private citizen and need help in decapitating the animal, please consult first with your County Animal Control.

If you cannot obtain help call the lab (801)-965-2584. For cases involving rodents and lagomorphs (rabbits and hares), domestic animals or cases with no human exposure, please contact the Department of Health (801-538-6333 or 1-888-EPI-UTAH (374-8824)) for guidance on appropriate quarantine measures and whether to submit the specimen for testing. http://health.utah.gov/epi/diseases/rabies/

Rabies Collection Kits can be ordered through this link: Supply Ordering or call (801) 965-2400.

Influenza PCR

UPHL performs Influenza A subtyping for the hemagglutinin gene (H1, H1 pdm 2009, H3, H5 and H7 subtypes) and Influenza B lineage determination (Victoria and Yamagata). We use the FDA approved PCR test developed by CDC. We perform the test free of charge for surveillance purpose. The test is also available for primary diagnosis as a fee for service test. In order to ensure STAT testing of the sample, please call the lab (801-965-2584) before submitting specimens intended for primary diagnosis.

Check below for information regarding testing

Test Request Form